How could I not feature my favourite designer handbag brand on my own fashion blog? I can’t believe it took me this long!

Louis Vuitton, at 150, is probably the oldest fashion brand in the world. It is also one of the globe’s most successful (and most counterfeited) labels, instantly recognizable by its iconic, intertwined LV monogram. Louis Vuitton created his first travel bags in 1858 and his signature design is still highly desirable today, standing as a symbol of style and elegance in travel luggage.

The fashion world always waits with bated breath for new creations from the Louis Vuitton team and the eagerly-anticipated Monogram Empriente line was launched at this year’s Paris spring collection. This became available to the rest of the fashion-conscious world this fall. The range comprises a collection of bags fashioned in sensuously supple calf-leather, which combine practicality with the sophistication and style we expect from this classic label.

The Lumineuse tote bag (available two sizes) features two long handles and a detachable shoulder strap, making it a versatile day bag which still oozes worldly appeal. Its zipped front pocket has a gold metal ring for charms, and the top zip includes a padlock for added security. The inside is lined with typical Louis Vuitton style fabric and contains a variety of pockets and pouches. Like most of the new collection, the Lumineuse is available in a choice of five colours: blue (Storm), Burgundy (Flame), taupe (Shadow), off-white (Snow) and navy (Infinite).

The monogrammed Artsy is a soft hobo-style bag with a single leather handle attached by gold metal hoops. Apart from a leather thong with two charm rings, the exterior remains elegantly uncluttered. The interior has the same striped fabric as the Lumineuse and a huge number of pockets.

The Empriente collection also includes the Inspiree, or bowling bag and the timeless Petillante clutch. This is a magnetically secured folding bag with zipped pockets front and back. When unfolded it reveals a patch pocket tucked inside the fold. The clutch has the same interior lining, a lipstick pouch and two patch pockets. The Inspiree is available in three colours and the Petillante in four. To complete this stunning collection there are also two separate wallets: the Portefeulle Secrete long and the compact coin purse, which make ideal accessories to any bag in this gorgeous range.

I have to admit, I love the clutch best of all because the bags would look huge on me as I’m on the petite side.  What would you get or have already gotten from this line?

Anya Hindmarch broke into the fashion world at the tender age of 18 when inspired by Italian bag fashions in the streets of Florence. She introduced these to the UK through Harpers and Queen magazine and became an overnight entrepreneur. Her interest in fashion bags never wavered and she began designing and producing her own bags, still influenced by Italian designs.

She opened her first store in London in 1993 and her earliest major success was the screen-printed ‘Be a Bag’ – a personalised tote bag. Her designs were soon being sought after by Hollywood’s A-list, international socialites and even royalty (Princess Diana was an early fan).

Going from strength to strength, she soon opened stores in New York and Los Angeles, as well as numerous other locations worldwide. Her handbags are now sold in over 19 countries and her turnover doubles every three years. Glamour Magazine gave her the Designer of the Year award two years running and in 2007 she received the British Fashion Awards Designer Brand of the Year; the same year she launched her controversial eco tote bag bearing the slogan “I’m Not a PlasticBag”. Last year she was honoured with an MBE for her contribution to the British Fashion Industry and Anya Hindmarch’s empire is now worth over $30 million.

Hindmarch was particularly interested in bespoke designs and in 2009 she launched her bespoke range at her new London Pont Street store. The 100 product strong range includes handbags, wallets, jewellery boxes, key sets, money clips, USB sticks, albums, diaries and luggage, all available in a variety of finishes and colours and ready to be personalised with embossed messages in the purchaser’s own handwriting.

This year Hindmarch created a capsule collection of four exclusive designs for Barbour’s 2010 Autumn/Winter collection. The quartet comprises a practical but stylish ‘Foxy’ wax cotton jacket and coat trimmed with velvet or fur and two ‘Minx’ quilted styles.

At the age of 42, and regularly consulted by British Prime Minister, David Cameron, the world seems to be Anya Hindmarch’s oyster. But bags are her passion and whatever her political ambitions, Anya Hindmarch seems set to retain her ‘queen of handbags’ crown for many years to come.

When looking for the latest jewellery trends, it is always wise to look at what is happening on the catwalk, as well as look at those enjoying the show. At the recent fashion shows held around the world, the following was quite obvious: Bold and bright is beautiful.

There seems to be a penchant for cross-jewellery: Pendants, rings, earrings etc. The trend of big and bold also holds true for the casual style jewellery. Chunky rings and bracelets, dangling earrings and statement jewellery are the order of the day and make mixing and matching with your wardrobe a lot of fun. It also doesn’t have to cost you a fortune – unless, of course, you insist on gold and diamonds.

Statement jewellery brings a big ‘notice me’ board with them and should preferably be worn alone. The message of the statement should not be lost among multiple bracelets or sparkly earrings. Rather choose one piece of statement jewellery and work it to its full advantage.

Wood, brass, beads and silver make up jewellery fashion along with custom-made pieces that lend your collection an air of exclusivity. There is a focus on local themes in contrast to last year’s African themes with tribal beads, seeded beads etc. Use materials found locally and be creative with the jewellery that they produce.

Having said all that, there also seems to be a move to use more blacks, whites, blues, greens and greys to give the jewellery a look of strength.Use your colourful wardrobe and beautiful accessories in combinations that express your individuality and your personality. Remember: Whatever the style or the trend, jewels adorn you – not the other way around.